Do I Need Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment?

When you are taking a potentially addictive prescription drug, you might begin to wonder if you are becoming addicted to it. With all of the news on the prevalence of addiction, it is a very valid question. Fortunately, there are a few ways that you can tell if you need prescription drug addiction treatment.

Behavioral Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction

One of the common ways to tell if you need prescription drug addiction treatment is that you start to exhibit certain behavioral signs of the addiction. According to the New York State Health Department, these signs are:

Changes in personality or normal behavioral patterns

Avoiding contact with family or friends who do not use drugs

Stealing prescriptions or money to get the prescription drugs

Taking more than your prescribed amount or taking it in a way that it is not prescribed

Mental issues such as mood swings, anger, or volatility

Drop in work performance or grades

Each of these are an indication that your use of prescription drugs is out of hand and you need treatment.

Physical Signs that you Need Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment

Aside from the behavioral signs, there are also physical signs that you may need to seek treatment. According to the Indian Health Services Administration, these signs are:

Changes in appearance

Slovenliness or changes in bathing and cleaning habits

Sudden weight gain or loss

Physical impairment such as loss of coordination

Odd body odor or odors on clothing.

These signs are usually unmistakable depending on the prescription drug you are taking and how you are taking it.

Fortunately, there are many types of treatment available for prescription drug addiction. These treatments consist of medication replacement, assistance, behavioral therapy, and group therapies. No matter which prescription drug you are addicted to there is help available for you in treatment centers across the country.